Tooth position
Upper incisors may be tipped or positioned forward relative to the rest of the arch.
Protruding teeth
Protruding front teeth: understand tooth position, jaw relationship and overjet
Front teeth can appear prominent because of tooth angulation, jaw relationship, lip posture or a combination of factors. The visible appearance does not by itself explain the cause.
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Understanding this topic
Protruding front teeth: understand tooth position, jaw relationship and overjet
Front teeth can appear prominent because of tooth angulation, jaw relationship, lip posture or a combination of factors. The visible appearance does not by itself explain the cause.
Assessment should distinguish overjet from overbite and consider growth, bite function, trauma risk, profile and patient concerns.
Decision points
What to notice before deciding
Jaw relationship
A relatively retrusive lower jaw can contribute to increased horizontal projection.
Timing
In growing patients, timing may affect which options are considered.
Risk and function
Prominent incisors may be more exposed during some activities and may affect lip comfort or bite function.
Questions about this topic
Common questions about Protruding teeth
Is protrusion the same as overbite?
No. Overjet describes horizontal projection; overbite usually describes vertical overlap.
Can braces or aligners fix protruding teeth?
They may help in selected cases, but the plan depends on the tooth and jaw relationships.
When should a child be assessed?
Significant protrusion, trauma concerns or bite problems are reasonable reasons for assessment.
References